Linkase is an All-in-One WiFi Booster and iPhone 5 Case

Wi-Fi signal strength (or lack thereof) has been a major complaint about the iPhone 5 thus far. Linkase, from Absolute Technology, is being put forward as a potential solution.

Absolute Technology points out that the slimmer phones get, and the larger the screens get, the less room there is for signal antennas. If your hand blocks the antenna, that can make for some bad times in the Wi-Fi department. To circumvent that, the Linkase includes a slide-out extra antenna, using electromagnetic waveguide technology. Roughly speaking, it’s an external antenna that works with the antenna inside your iPhone in order to strengthen Wi-Fi reception. When not in use, you can slide the antenna back down into the case. Absolute Technology is saying that the Linkase can boost wireless reception by up to 50 percent.

The case itself is made from polycarbonate, with a leather coating and raised rubber bevels above the screen. Linkase comes in black, grey, white, blue, and red. The slide-out antennas, called EMW elements, are interchangeable – an extra element of a different color will be included with each case, and you can buy elements of other colors separately. The company doesn’t yet have an option to purchase these online, and their map of licensed retailers isn’t up yet, so it’s hard to say where you can actually find this thing. If you’re interested, keep an eye on the Absolute website for more information in the future. Right now, the Linkase is only being made for the iPhone 5.

Update: The accessory will retail for $49 and will be available to purchase within 30-60 days.